Multi-source projection-type display

ABSTRACT

A display device capable of displaying a plurality of projection images is provided. The display device includes a light source within a base and a plurality of projection outputs. Each projection output comprises an optical modulation device and a projection lens system. The light source includes a switch and a plurality of light sources such as lasers or LEDs with different color to one another. The switch receives and diverts light beams from the light sources in a predetermined sequential order to the plurality of projection outputs.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.13/452,638, filed Apr. 20, 2012 and entitled “Multi-SourceProjection-Type Display,” which is a division of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/477,534, filed Jun. 3, 2009 and entitled “Multi-SourceProjection-Type Display.” The entireties of these applications areincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

In general, a projection-type display or video projector displays animage that corresponds to a video signal upon a projection screen orother surface (e.g., wall). One of the major characteristics ofprojection-type display devices is their ability to display images thatare larger in size than images produced by other displays such as CRT(cathode-ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display). Projection-typedisplay devices have relatively smaller size compared to the imagecapable of being projected.

Traditionally, these video projection devices are widely used forbusiness presentations, classroom training, home theater, etc. Forexample, projection devices are widely used in many schools andinstitutions to project onto an interactive white board during thecourse of teaching students.

Most modern projection devices are capable of correcting distortion,focus, and other inconsistencies by way of manual controls. However, todate, conventional projection-type display devices have been designed ina fixed CRT/LCD traditional mindset, such as single video output perdevice, or a lack of portability for a large image.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an example system that facilitates selectiveprojection of images in accordance with aspects of the innovation.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example flow chart of procedures that facilitatemulti-image projection in accordance with aspects of the innovation.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a display device in accordancewith embodiments.

FIG. 4 is an example schematic chart showing a switch diverting lightbeams from light source into different projection outputs in accordancewith embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a simplified schematic of components within base of adisplay device in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates simplified front view of an example light sourceconfiguration in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates a simplified top perspective view of an example lightsource configuration in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 8 shows a simplified side view of projection components inaccordance with aspects of the innovation.

FIG. 9 illustrates a front view of a projection display device withpositional interface and lower portion cutaway.

FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of an alternate embodiment of aprojection display device with multiple positional interfaces.

FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative perspective view of a display devicein accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates an alternative schematic chart showing a switchdiverting light beams from light source into different projectionoutputs in accordance with embodiments.

FIGS. 13-16 show various aspects of a display device casting projectionimages on a receiving surface in accordance with embodiments.

FIGS. 17-18 show various aspects of a display device projecting threeprojection images respectively on three receiving surfaces in accordanceembodiments.

FIG. 19 illustrates an example block diagram of a control circuitry ofdisplay device in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example visual output according to embodiments.

FIG. 21 illustrates another example visual output according toembodiments.

FIG. 22 illustrates exemplary, non-limiting embodiments in which contentsensitive determination of foreground and background content ofprojected media, such as video game content, enhances a user experience.

FIG. 23 illustrates another type of projector module that can beemployed in one or more embodiments.

FIG. 24 illustrates yet another non-limiting embodiment in which thetype of projector module depicted in FIG. 22 is employed to achieveswitching among multiple outputs.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, whereinlike reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout.In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the subject innovation. It may be evident, however,that the innovation may be practiced without these specific details. Inother instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in blockdiagram form in order to facilitate describing the innovation.

As used in this application, the terms “component” and “system” areintended to refer to a computer-related entity, either hardware, acombination of hardware and software, software, or software inexecution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to being,a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable,a thread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. By way ofillustration, both an application running on a server and the server maybe a component. One or more components may reside within a processand/or thread of execution, and a component may be localized on onecomputer and/or distributed between two or more computers.

The innovation disclosed and claimed herein, in aspects thereof,comprises a projection system that displays a plurality of images upon asingle or a plurality of surfaces. In aspects, a switch is provided thatselectively diverts light to each of a plurality of projection outputs,for example, in accordance with predetermined video data. The multipleprojection outputs enable multiple images to be displayed upon a singleor multiple surfaces simultaneously.

Moreover, color wheels have conventionally been used as a type of analogswitch, but are deficiencies inherent to the switching with color wheelsthat can cause temporary gaps in the resulting display that aresometimes noticeable during viewing. Thus, in accordance with a onenon-limiting benefit of one or more embodiments described herein,digital switching of multiples colored light output is enabled that doesnot suffer from the temporary gaps inherent in analog color wheels. Innon-limiting implementations of multiple outputs, three outputs fromthree projection heads are provided in correspondence to three lightsources, e.g., red, green and blue light sources such as light emittingdiodes (LEDs) or lasers.

In other non-limiting embodiments, a projection apparatus not onlyprovides digital control of the positioning of multiple light outputs,but also mechanical control on top of the digital control of the lightoutputs. In these embodiments, in addition to providing digitalswitching among multiple colored light outputs, the light outputs can bephysically moved by way of mechanical structure, such as a semi-rigidbut bendable structure, to additionally aim of the colored lightoutputs. In this way, while the projection apparatus may be able tohandle 60 inch image/video rendering, a user can adjust the outputsmechanically to achieve a subset of the total imaging space possible,e.g., such that the lights outputs cover a 40 inch image/videorendering. Thus, less than the total imaging space can be realizedthrough the combination of digital switching of multiple colored lightoutputs as well as mechanical maneuverability of the light outputs.

In other aspects of the subject innovation, the system may automaticallyadjust resolution of each (or all) of the displayed images. In otheraspects, multiple image alignment may be adjusted as appropriate orotherwise desired. In embodiments, keystone correction may be employedto adjust a displayed image in accordance with a displayed surface.Similarly, image quality may be monitored and detected. Accordingly,light sources may be dynamically controlled as a function of captureddata.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an example blockdiagram of a system 100 that facilitates projection display inaccordance with aspects of the innovation. Generally, the system 100 mayinclude a projection management system 101 that enables multiple imagesto be projected from the projection-type device 100 as illustrated.Projection management system 101 may include a switching component 105and a multi-projection output component 107 which together facilitatesimultaneous projection of multiple images from a single projection-typedisplay device 100.

As shown in FIG. 1, the light source may include multiple sources, forexample, a red, green and blue laser set as illustrated in the example.Red, green and blue light emitting diode (LED) sets may also be used.The switching component 105 may direct or route a red laser, the greenlaser and the blue laser in a predetermined order to a light modulationdevice within each multi-chamber projection component 107. In otherwords, in one example, the switching component 105 may direct light inan alternating, cyclical or other determined order such that eachprojection output component 107 may sequentially share light generatedfrom an individual source. It will be understood that, while theprojection-type display device 100 may employ multiple projectionoutputs (107) to generate multiple images, light sources 103 may beshared between the outputs thereby not requiring dedicated light sourcesfor each projection output.

FIG. 2 illustrates a methodology of transmitting multiple images via aprojection-type display in accordance with aspects of the innovation.While, for purposes of simplicity of explanation, the one or moremethodologies shown herein, e.g., in the form of a flow chart, are shownand described as a series of acts, it is to be understood andappreciated that the subject innovation is not limited by the order ofacts, as some acts may, in accordance with the innovation, occur in adifferent order and/or concurrently with other acts from that shown anddescribed herein. For example, those skilled in the art will understandand appreciate that a methodology could alternatively be represented asa series of interrelated states or events, such as in a state diagram.Moreover, not all illustrated acts may be required to implement amethodology in accordance with the innovation.

At 202, light is produced via multiple light sources such as multiplelaser sets. In alternative aspects, it is to be understood that lightmay be produced via multiple light emitting diodes (LEDs) or othersuitable light source. Video data may be analyzed at 204, for example,to determine an intended display configuration. In examples, theinnovation may be used to project multiple images upon a single surface.Alternative, in other aspects, multiple surfaces may be employed todisplay multiple images.

At 206, light may be diverted to multiple outputs 107 as described withreference to FIG. 1. In operation, light may be routed to outputs 107based upon the analysis of 204. For example, light may be sequentiallytransmitted or routed to each of the outputs 107 in a predeterminedmanner or timing sequence. It is to be understood that timing may varyin accordance with most any sequence or desired presentation scheme.

At 208, light may be selectively transmitted. For example, modulationdevices within each output may selectively transmit light in accordancewith video data. At 210, the transmitted light may be output onto asurface or screen. In other aspects, multiple surfaces or screens may beemployed to output or display images. As described above, multipleprojection chambers may be used to project multiple images from a singleprojection-type display device, though chambers are optional in thatmultiple light outputs is sufficient. The figures that follow illustratemore detailed example devices in accordance with the features, functionsand benefits of the innovation. Thus, the innovation will be betterunderstood upon a review of the disclosure with respect to the followingfigures.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is illustrated top perspective view of anexample display device 10 in accordance with one of the presentembodiments. Display device 10 is capable of producing and projectingone or more video images on one or more receiving surfaces as desired.As shown, device 10 comprises a base 12, a plurality of projectionoutputs 14 that each include a separate projection output, and aplurality of positional interfaces 16.

Base 12 is configured to maintain a position of display device 10, e.g.,relative to a stationary object. In embodiments, base 12 includes arelatively flat bottom that allows display device 10 to rest upon a flatsurface such as a table or desk. One or more high friction pads 18attach to a bottom surface 22 b of base 12 to increase static frictionwith the flat surface. Base 12 may also comprise a receiving slot 27that allows modular attachment of functional accessories for displaydevice 10. For example, slot 27 may receive a clip attachment thatcomprises a spring-powered clip for clamping base 12 onto a stationaryobject. This allows base 12 and display device 10 to be mounted onnon-flat or non-horizontal surfaces such as vertical walls ofbookshelves and cubicles, and personal clothing or accessories such asbelts or straps, for example. Base 12 may also comprise another slot onits bottom side, dimensioned the same, to permit reception of thefunctional accessories on the bottom side of base 12.

A housing 20 protects internal components within base 12, defines outerdimensions of base 12, and defines dimensions of an inner light sourceoutput. As shown, housing 20 is about rectangular and comprises foursidewalls 22 c-f (only facing sidewalls 22 c and 22 d are shown in thefigure), top wall 22 a, and bottom wall 22 b. Walls 22 comprise asuitably stiff or rigid material that grants structural rigidity forbase 12 and mechanical protection for internal components within housing20. A lightweight and rigid plastic, composite, alloy or aluminum issuitable in this regard. One or more walls of housing 20 may alsoinclude air vents 24 that allow air flow between the inner chamber andan environment external to housing 20. In other embodiments, housing 20includes a more rounded or contoured shape than that shown in FIG. 3 anddoes not include orthogonal walls or a rectangular shape.

Each projection output 14, such as but not limited to a projectionchamber 14 as presently described, may include components responsiblefor the production of images based on received light and received videodata, and components capable for the projection of those images.Projection chamber 14 comprises a projection chamber housing 32, anoptical modulation device (within projection chamber housing 32, notshown), and an output projection lens system (within projection chamberhousing 32, not shown). In accordance with aspects of the innovation,the optical modulation device selectively transmits light generated by alight source in base 12 according to video data included in a videosignal provided to the optical modulation device, and will be describedin further detail with respect to the figures that follow. Theprojection lens system outputs light transmitted by the opticalmodulation device along a projection path, and will also be described infurther detail infra.

In operation, a light source within base 12 generates light which isprovided to the optical modulation device within projection chamber 14as a luminous flux. In embodiments, one or more optical fibers transmitlight from the light source within base 12 to the optical modulationdevice within projection chamber 14. The optical modulation deviceselectively transmits light according to video data in a signal thatcorresponds to an image to be projected. The projection lens systemenlarges and projects an image formed by the optical modulation device.The image is cast with a splay angle such that the image enlarges as thedistance to a receiving surface increases.

Projection chamber 14 comprises a projection chamber housing 32 thatprotects internal components of projection chamber 14; and defines outerand inner dimensions of projection chamber 14. As shown, projectionchamber housing 32 is substantially cylindrical, except for an addedreceiving interface 29 on its bottom side. Projection chamber housing 32has a cylindrical axis that is about collinear with output projectionpath. An output optical projection lens 37 of the projection lens systemforms and seals forward end of projection chamber 14.

In embodiments, the average diameter of cylindrical projection chamberhousing 32 is relatively within ten percent of the diameter of outputoptical projection lens 37. In other embodiments, projection chamberhousing 32 tapers slightly such that its forward end is slightly largerthan an aft end, resulting in a slightly frustoconical shape where lens37 constitutes the larger end.

It is to be understood that the shape and design of projection chamber14 may vary in alternative aspects. For example, forward end ofprojection chamber 14 may be rounded to accommodate a circular outputlens 37 while aft end is cornered to accommodate a rectangular opticalmodulation device and associated support components that are locallycontained better by a rectangular housing. Projection chamber housing 32defines an inner chamber as described in further detail below.Projection chamber housing 32 comprises a suitably stiff material forstructural rigidity of base 12 and internal component protection. Alightweight and rigid plastic, composite, alloy or aluminum is suitablefor several embodiments.

Receiving interface 29 is disposed on the lower side of projectionchamber 14 and permits coupling between projection chamber 14 andpositional interface 16. Receiving interface 29 also permits containmentand protection of display device 10 components that do not entirely fitwithin projection chamber 14, or components that require spatialarrangements outside of projection chamber 14. In embodiments, receivinginterface 29 comprises the same material as projection chamber housing32 and extends the interior projection chamber provided by projectionchamber housing 32.

Positional interface 16 allows projection chamber 14 to be movedrelative to base 12, and allows projection chamber 14 to maintain aconstant position relative to base 12 after being moved. Thus,positional interface 16 allows a user to point or aim projection chamber14 and manipulate the position of an output image projected by displaydevice 10 with ease. In embodiments, positional interface 16 comprises aball and socket combination that permits relative rotational movementbetween projection chamber 14 and base 12. In other embodiments,positional interface 16 comprises corrugated metal tubing that issufficiently rigid to hold a position for projection chamber 14, whilecompliant enough for a user to bend the tubing to achieve a desiredposition and orientation for projection chamber 14.

Positional interface 16 couples to base 12 and couples to projectionchamber 14. For the embodiments shown in FIG. 3, positional interface 16comprises an upper end that attaches to projection chamber housing 32and a lower end that attaches or couples to housing 20 of base 12. Morespecifically, a projection chamber housing 32 portion of receivinginterface 29 allows attachment to upper end of positional interface 16,while a central portion of top wall 22 a allows attachment to lower endof positional interface 16. As shown, positional interface 16 couples toprojection chamber housing 32 at a location between an aft end ofprojection chamber 14 and a forward end that includes output opticalprojection lens 37.

In embodiments, upper end of positional interface 16 couples at alocation relatively close to a center of mass of projection chamber 14to minimize mechanical moments transmitted onto base 12, e.g., thoseresulting from a displacement of center of mass of projection chamber 14away from a center of mass for base 12. In other embodiments, base 12includes a recessed groove in top wall 22 a that allows positionalinterface 16 to be folded or collapsed down into top wall 22 a, therebydecreasing the profile of display device 10 during non-use.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example schematic chart illustrating optical pathfrom a light source 64 configured in base 12 (FIG. 3) to multipleprojection outputs 107 such as each projection chamber 14 in accordancewith one of the present embodiments. Light source 64 includes aplurality of laser sets, such as a red laser set 961, a green laser set962 and a blue laser set 963, generating a plurality of laser beams withdifferent color to one another, such as red laser beam, green laser beamand blue laser beam. As shown, light source 64 may include a switch 8which receives the red laser beam, green laser beam and blue laser beamfrom the red laser set 961, the green laser set 962 and the blue laserset 963 respectively.

In embodiments, display device 10 comprises three projection chambers14. Each of the projection chambers 14 includes an optical modulationdevice 102 and a projection lens system 112. The optical modulationdevice 102 is configured to selectively transmit light generated by thelight source according to a receiving video data. The projection lenssystem 112 is configured to output light transmitted by the opticalmodulation device 102 along a predetermined projection path, so as todisplay projection images on one or more external receiving surfaces.

The switch 8 is capable of diverting the red laser beam, the green laserbeam and the blue laser beam in a predetermined sequential order to eachof the three projection chambers 14. For instance, in embodiments, thereare three modes corresponding to a first time frame, a second time frameand a third time frame, respectively.

In the first mode, during the first time frame, red laser beam istransmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102 a; greenlaser beam is transmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102b; blue laser beam is transmitted from switch 8 to optical modulationdevice 102 c.

In the second mode, during the second time frame, red laser beam istransmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102 c; greenlaser beam is transmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102a; blue laser beam is transmitted from switch 8 to optical modulationdevice 102 b.

In the third mode, during a third time frame, red laser beam istransmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102 b; greenlaser beam is transmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102c; blue laser beam is transmitted from switch 8 to optical modulationdevice 102 a.

Lasting time of the first time frame, the second time frame and thethird time frame may be identical to one another in embodiments. Namely,the first mode, the second mode and the third mode take turns evenly tobe applied in the light source 64. In some other embodiments, lastingtime of the first time frame, the second time frame and the third timeframe may differ from one another according to system requirement. Suchadjustment toward lasting time may be used as color control manner ofthe display device 10.

FIG. 5 illustrates a simplified top view schematic of components withinbase 12 in accordance with some embodiments. A light source chamber 65is defined in volume and shape by inside walls 22 a-f of base 12. Lightsource chamber 65 comprises fans 62 a and 62 b, light source 64, powersupply 66, fiber-optic interface 70, fiber-optic cable 72, input/outputcircuitry 74, control circuitry 76, and input/output interfaces 78.

In embodiments, base 12 is designed or configured to maintain balance ofdisplay device 10. In this case, base 12 may be designed to maintainbalance for any position of projection chamber 14 relative to base 12while base 12 rests on a flat surface. Thus, components within base 12may be arranged and situated such that they cumulatively provide acenter of mass 23 relatively close to a geometric center for a footprintof base 12. As shown, light source 64 and power supply 66, which aretypically the heaviest components in base 12, are disposed relativelycentral to the footprint in one dimension and on opposite sides ofcenter of mass 23 in the other dimension. In embodiments, componentswithin base 12 are arranged within base 12 according to their weight inorder to substantially balance moments about a center of mass 23. Theexact position of each component will depend of on the number and typeof components and base 12 layout. In addition, housing 20 may be sizedto provide a wide enough footprint to balance moments produced bypositions and orientations of projection chamber 14 away from a centerof mass 23 for base 12.

Fans 62 a and 62 b move air through light source chamber 65 for coolingcomponents within light source chamber 65. In embodiments, fans 62 a and62 b draw air in through inlet air vents 24 a on one side of base 12 andexhaust heated air out of exhaust air vents 24 b after the air hascooled internal components of base 12 and walls of housing 20. Oneskilled in the art will appreciate that fans 62 a and 62 b, inlet airvents 24 and exhaust air vents 24 b placement will vary with internalcomponent placement within light source chamber 65. Specifically, fan 62a and 62 b placement, and airflow patterns effected by fans 62 withinlight source chamber 65, is designed according to individual temperatureregulation requirements and heat generation contributions of componentswithin base 12. Light source 64 and power supply 66 generate the largestproportion of heat within base 12, while control circuitry 76 andinput/output circuitry 74 call for tighter temperature regulation.Correspondingly, inlet air 69 passes in through inlet air vents 24 a,initially passes and cools control circuitry 76 and input/outputcircuitry 74 while the air is relatively cool, passes across powersupply 66 and light source 64, and exits out exhaust air vents 24 b. Theexhaust air may also cool fan motors 63 a and 63 b, which rotate fans 62a and 62 b, respectively. In embodiments, multiple fans are used topermit a lower profile for base 12.

It is to be understood that the number and size of fans used will dependon heat generation within display device 10 and a desired air flow tomaintain one or more heat dissipation goals. Light source chamber 65 mayalso include one or more vertical or horizontal airflow guides 67 withinlight source chamber 65 to direct and distribute airflow as desired. Inembodiments, light source 64 comprises one or more diode laser arraysand one or more circuit boards to power and control the diode lasers. Inthis case, airflow guides 67 are arranged to direct cooling air acrossthe surfaces of each circuit board. As will be described in furtherdetail below, fans 62 a and 62 b may also be responsible for drawing airthrough positional interface 16 and to or from projection chamber 14 tocool the optical modulation device included therein.

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate simplified front and top perspective views,respectively, of a light source configuration in accordance with someembodiments. In this case, light source chamber 65 includes an array oflasers that generate collimated light. Lasers may comprise anycombination of diode lasers and/or diode pumped solid-state (DPSS)lasers, for example. The collimated light produced by a diode laserdiffers from radiant light and is characterized by light that is outputwith about the same output direction, and significantly in phase.

The array of lasers may comprise one or more red diode lasers 96 a, oneor more green diode lasers 96 b, and one or more blue diode lasers 96 c.A red laser set 961 comprises a plurality of red diode lasers 96 a. Agreen laser set 962 comprises a plurality of green DPSS lasers 96 b. Ablue laser set 963 comprises a plurality of blue diode lasers 96 c. Thenumber and power of lasers for each color is scaled according to adesired light intensity output for display device 10 and according tothe light sensitivity of a viewer to each color. Each laser diode isinstalled on a circuit board 97, which mounts, and provides electricalcontrol for each laser diode installed thereon. Multiple lasers may bemounted on a single board 97 to reduce space occupied by light source64. Including multiple lasers for a single color allows outputluminosity of display device 10 to vary with the number of lasers turnedon for each color, and allows for redundant control of light generationby lasers. Thus, one or more of the lasers may be turned off if lesslight intensity is desired, longevity of individual lasers benefits fromperiodic shut-down, or power conservation for display device 10 ispreferred.

Referring to FIG. 8, in embodiments, light output from the lasers isprovided to fiber-optic cabling 72. Fiber-optic cabling 72 includes oneor more fiber optic cables that transmit light from each laser alongmultiple or common optical paths to relay optics system 106 and 108disposed along a light path between an exit end of fiber-optic cabling72 and an optical modulation device 102.

Referring again to FIG. 7, each cable 72 has an inlet end 72 a thatreceives light from a red laser 96 a, a green laser 96 b or a blue laser96 c; and each cable 72 also has an outlet end 72 b that outlets thelaser light for transmission to relay optics 106 and 108, and subsequenttransmission to optical modulation device 102. Since fiber-optic cabling72 may be bent and flexibly positioned, fiber-optic cabling 72advantageously allows light transmission between lasers and relay opticssystem regardless of the positioning and orientation between the lasersand optics system. For example, this allows flexible arrangement oflasers, relay optics 106 and 108 and prism 110 (FIG. 8), which may beused to improve space conservation within base 12, decrease thefootprint of base 12, and minimize display device 10 size. In addition,flexible fiber-optic cabling 72 also allows positional interface 16 tomove without compromising light provision to the optical modulationdevice in projection chamber 14.

The number of fiber optic cables in cabling 72 will vary with design.Multiple fiber-optic cables may be employed in a design where each cableservices one or more colors to the switch and one cable from the switchto each optical modulation device. As shown in FIG. 7, light from redlaser 96 a, green laser 96 b or blue laser 96 c is first transmittedinto a fiber-optic cable dedicated to each color; and subsequentlyrouted by the switch into a common fiber-optic cable 71. In embodiments,each fiber-optic cable attaches directly to an individual laser. Forexample, each fiber-optic cable may include a fixture with an innerthreaded interface that matches a threaded interface disposed on anoutside surface of a laser housing. Commercially available fiber-opticcables, such as that available from Ocean Optics Inc. of Dunedin, Fla.,may come standard with such coupling and alignment fixtures. Inembodiments, a short focal length normal or GRIN lens is mounted at theinlet end of each cable to facilitate laser-to-fiber light transitionand collimated transfer into cable.

Junction 75 permits transmission of light from fiber-optic cables 72into converging optics 77, and into common fiber-optic cable 79.Converging optics 77 redirect incoming light from each fiber-optic cableinto common fiber-optic cable 79 and comprise a converging lens 77 athat redirects light toward re-collimating lens 77 b, which collimatesand re-directs incoming laser light from converging lens 77 a intocommon optical fiber 79. Although not shown, junction 75 may alsoinclude a rigid structure, such as a suitably dimensioned moldedplastic, that fixtures (e.g., holds and positions) fiber-optic cablesand common fiber-optic cable 79. In embodiments, junction 75 comprisesan optical adhesive that adheres cables directly to converging lens 77a. In other embodiments, at the outlet end 72 b, the fiber-optic cablesare combined into a larger cable that contains multiple fibers. Multiplefiber cables, such as fiber ribbon-based cables and those that employmultiple fibers located circumferentially within a round tube, arecommercially available from a variety of vendors.

Multiple fiber-optic cable designs may be employed where each cabletransmits a primary color. For example, three fiber-optic cables may beemployed in which each cable transmits light from a primary color set oflasers along three different optical paths to three primary colorsdedicated optical modulation devices.

Referring again to FIG. 5, inner light chamber 65 may also employ otherlight source arrangements to generate light for display device 10. Somelight source arrangements, for example, may comprise an array of radiantlight emitting diodes, characterized by radiant, non-lasing ornon-collimated light generation. Similar to diode and DPSS lasers,radiant light emitting diodes consume less power and generate less heatthan a white light lamp, and also emit colored light and thereby mayoperate without a color wheel. Light chamber 65 may also include one ormore dichroic mirrors in white light generation assemblies to separatered, green and blue light for transmission within fiber optic cables 72to color dedicated optical modulation devices, such as three liquidcrystal display (LCD) valves employed for red, green and blue control.

Power supply 66 is configured provide to electrical power to lightsource 64 and other components within display device 10 that rely onelectrical power. Thus, power supply 66 provides electrical energy tocontrol circuitry 76, input/output circuitry 74, fans 62 a and 62 b,power diode 80 and components within projection chamber 14 such asoptical modulation device 102 (FIG. 8). Power diode 80 is in electricalcommunication with an external power switch 82 and may illuminate whendisplay device 10 is turned on to indicate whether display device 10 ison or off. A power cord port 81 receives a power cord, which couplespower supply 66 to an AC power source such as a wall power supply. Inembodiments, conversion of AC power to DC power occurs in a transformerincluded between ends of the power cord, as is common with many laptopcomputer power cords, thereby reducing the size of power supply 66, base12 and display device 10 and increasing portability of display device10. Circuitry within power supply 66 may then convert incoming power toone or more DC voltages for specific components in display device 10.

In other embodiments, power supply 66 comprises at least onerechargeable battery 66 a. Battery 66 a may be recharged using powerprovided through inlet port 81. Battery 66 a allows display device 10 tooperate on stored energy and without reliance on proximity to an ACpower source, which further increases portability of display device 10.For example, inclusion of a battery in base 12 extends usage into a car,library, coffee shop, remote environment, or any other setting where ACand fixed power outlets are not readily available or within reach.

At least one fiber-optic cable 72 transmits light from light source 64to relay optics disposed along a light path between an exit end offiber-optic cable 72 and optical modulation device 102 (FIG. 8) inprojection chamber 14. With respect to device 10 structure, fiber-opticcable 72 transmits light from one compartment to a separate compartment,namely, from light source chamber in base 12 to projection chamber 14.The number of fiber optic cables will vary with design. As mentionedabove, multiple fiber-optic cables may be employed in a laser lightgeneration design, for example, where each fiber-optic cable 72 servicesone or more diode lasers. Alternatively, each fiber-optic cable 72 mayservice a primary color. For example, one fiber-optic cable may be usedto transmit sequentially controlled red, green and blue generated by adiode laser array and transmitted along a single light path to a singleminor-based optical modulation device. Three fiber-optic cables may beemployed to transmit light from a laser array that outputs red, greenand blue light into three fiber-optic cables, to three opticalmodulation devices that are each dedicated to modulation of a primarycolor.

Fiber-optic interface 70 facilitates transmission of light from eachlaser into fiber-optic cabling 72. Fiber-optic interface 70 may includeone or more fixtures that position and hold an inlet end for eachfiber-optic cable included in fiber-optic cabling 72 such that lightoutput from the light source transmits into a fiber-optic cable.Fiber-optic interface 70 may also include optics that direct light fromlasers into fiber-optic cabling 72. In embodiments, a single fiber-opticcable is used in cabling 72 and fiber-optic interface 70 includes a lenssystem disposed between the outlet of a lamp or each laser and the inletof the single fiber-optic cable to direct light into the cable. The lenssystem may comprise at least two lenses: a first lens to direct thelight towards the fiber entrance and a second lens that collimates lightentering the cable. In other embodiments that implement a one-to-onelaser to fiber-optic cable relationship; fiber-optic interface 70 holdsthe inlet end for each fiber-optic cable relatively close to the outletof each laser to receive light therefrom. Each cable in this case mayinclude a converging lens at its inlet end that facilitates lightcapture and transmission into a cable.

In another one-to-one design, each fiber-optic cable in fiber-opticcabling 72 includes a fixture that permits attachment to another object.For example, conventionally available fiber-optic cables available fromvendors such as Ocean Optics Inc. of Dunedin, Fla. include a detachablefixture with a thread that allows screwing and fixing of the fiber-opticcable to a mating thread disposed on a laser housing. In this case,fiber-optic interface 70 comprises the threaded fixture from each cableand the mating thread on the laser.

In some cases, a projection device with multiple outputs may be operatedin single output mode. In single path embodiments where red, green andblue lasers transmit colored light to a single optical modulation devicealong a single fiber-optic cable, switch 105 and fiber-optic interface70 receives colored light from each colored laser, in turn, according totimed control signals provided to the lasers by control circuitry 76.

Input/output circuitry 74 provides an interface between controlcircuitry 76 and one or more input/output interfaces 78. Input/outputinterfaces 78 are configured to receive at least one cable, wire, orconnector, such as a cable for transmitting a video signal comprisingvideo data from a digital computing device. Common ports suitable foruse with input/output interfaces 78 include ports that receive S videocable, 6-pin mini DIN, VGA 15-pin HDDSUB female, an audio cable,component RCA through an S-Video adaptor, composite video RCA cabling, auniversal serial bus (USB) cable, fire wire, etc. Input/outputinterfaces 78 may also include an audio output port for wired connectionto speakers employed by a headphone or speaker system.

Control circuitry 76 provides control signals to components of displaydevice 10. In embodiments, control circuitry 76 provides control signalto components not within base 12 by routing data from input/outputcircuitry 74.

Control circuitry 76 may provide control signals to light source 64 thatdetermine when light source 64 is turned on/off. In addition, circuitry76 may include memory that stores instructions for the operation ofcomponents within display device 10. For example, circuitry 74 mayprovide control signals to control fans 24 according to stored heatregulation instructions. One or more sensors may also be disposed withinbase 12 to facilitate thermal regulation. For example, a temperaturesensor may be disposed proximate to circuitry 74 and 76 to monitortemperature levels and participate in closed loop temperature controlwithin base 12 as controlled by control circuitry 76.

Input/output circuitry 74 and input ports 78 collectively permitcommunication between display device 10 and a device that outputs avideo signal carrying video data. For example, desktop computers, laptopcomputers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), cellular telephones,video game consoles, digital cameras, digital video recorders, DVDplayers, and VCRs, may all be suitable to output video data to displaydevice 10. Video data provided to control circuitry 76 may be in ananalog or digital form. In some cases, input/output circuitry 74 andcontrol circuitry 76 convert analog video signals into digital videosignals suitable for digital control of an optical modulation deviceincluded in display device 10, such as a liquid crystal display “LCD”device or a digital micromirror “DMD” device. Thus, input/outputcircuitry 74 or control circuitry 76 may also include support softwareand logic for particular connector types, such as processing logicrequired for S-video cabling or a digital video signal. Controlcircuitry 76 may also include and access memory that facilitatesconversion of incoming data types and enhances video compatibility ofdisplay device 10. Suitable video formats having stored conversioninstructions within memory accessed by control circuitry 76 may includeNTSC, PAL, SECAM, EDTV, and HDTV (1080i and 720p RGBHV), for example.

When lasers are used for light generation within light source 64, asdescribed above, control circuitry 76 receives video data included in asignal via one or more input ports 78 and input/output circuitry 74,converts the data to color frame sequential data, and synchronizes theframe sequential data for delivery to each optical modulation device 102and to each laser 96. In a single, double or triple path design betweenlasers 96, switch, and the optical modulation device where opticalfibers transmit red, green and blue light in a time controlledsequential order to each optical modulation device, this includessynchronizing the timing of data sent to the optical modulation deviceand on-off commands sent to lasers 96. It is to be understood thatcircuitry, e.g., control circuitry, is not intended to be limited tohardware only. Rather the circuitry, or controller, is intended toinclude hardware, software or combinations of hardware and software.

FIG. 8 shows a simplified side view illustration of components withinprojection chamber 14 of FIG. 3, taken through a vertical midpoint ofchamber 14 along its cylindrical axis, in accordance with some presentembodiments. FIG. 9 shows a front view illustration of display device 20with positional interface 16 and lower projection chamber 29 cutaway toshow components therein. Projection chamber 14 comprises opticalmodulation device 102, fiber-optic interface 104, relay optics 106 and108, prism structure 110, projection lens system 112, control and powercabling 120, and air duct 122.

Fiber-optic cabling 72 attaches to a fiber-optic interface 104 andoutputs light to relay optics 106. In embodiments, fiber-optic interface104 secures fiber-optic cabling 72 such that slack is provided forfiber-optic cabling 72 between attachment at fiber-optic interface 104and attachment within base 12. The slack allows fiber-optic cabling 72to deflect with positional interface 16 for various positions ofprojection chamber 14 relative to base 12.

Together, fiber-optic cabling 72 and fiber-optic interface 104 directlight generated by light source 64 to prism 110. In embodiments,fiber-optic cabling 72 and interface 104 are configured with respect toprism 110 so as to provide an optical path of incident light that isabout perpendicular to an incident surface of prism 110. Some digitalmicro-minor light modulator designs require that incoming light beincident on the light modulator from either above or below its lightreflecting surface to allow light output along projection path 31.

Receiving interface 29 of projection chamber housing 32 and fiber-opticinterface 104 ease this requirement and allow a designer to arrangefiber-optic cabling 72 and fiber-optic interface 104 within receivinginterface 29 such that fiber-optic interface 104 directs light at aparticular desired angle relative to prism 110, and onto opticalmodulation device 102. For example, fiber-optic interface 104 may becoupled to receiving interface 29 to provide an incident light path thatis perpendicular onto an incident surface of prism 110 and has a 45degree angle relative to optical modulation device 102, e.g., prism 110is rotated 45 degrees about projection path 31. Attachment betweeninterface 104 and housing 29 maintains the desired incoming light angledespite changing positions of fiber-optic cabling 72 along its lengthcaused by repositioning of positional interface 16.

Relay optics 106 and 108 convert light receive from fiber-optic cabling72 to light suitable for transmission into prism structure 110 and ontooptical modulation device 102. This may include shaping and resizinglight flux received from fiber-optic cabling 72 using one or morelenses.

In other embodiments, display device 10 comprises a pair of fly-eyelenses arranged in the optical path between light source 64 and prism110. Cumulatively, the pair of fly-eye lenses uniformly distributeslight received from fiber-optic cabling 72 to the flux transmitted uponoptical modulation device 102. In embodiments, the pair of fly-eyelenses are arranged on either and a fiber-optic cabling 72. The firstfly-eye lens is disposed at fiber-optic interface 70 within base 12,receives light from a lamp or diode laser array, and spatially dividesthe entire input light flux into a set of blocks or components that eachcomprises a portion of the total area of the inlet flux. Light for eachblock or component then travels down its own fiber-optic cabling 72. Thesecond fly-eye lens comprises the same number of blocks or componentsand is disposed at relay lens 106. The second fly-eye lens receives afiber-optic cable for each block or component and outputs light for eachcomponent such that the light from each component is expanded to spanthe downstream dimensions of optical modulation device 102 and theprojected image.

Prism structure 110 is an optical modulation system that provides lightto optical modulation device 102 at predetermined angles. Prismstructure 110 also transmits light from optical modulation device 102 tothe projection lens system 112 along projection path 31. Prism structure110 comprises prism components 110 a and 110 b that are separated by airspace or bonding interface 110 c. Interface 110 c is disposed at such anangle so as to reflect light provided from fiber-optic cables 72, andintermittent relay optics, towards optical modulation device 102. Inaddition, interface 110 c allows light reflected by optical modulationdevice 102 to transmit to projection lens system 112 along projectionpath 31.

Optical modulation device 102 is configured to selectively transmitlight to provide an output image along projection path 31. To do so,optical modulation device 102 is supplied with video data included in avideo signal and selectively transmits light according to the videodata. The video data is typically provided to device 102 on a frame byframe basis according to individual pixel values. If the video data isnot received by display device 10 in this format, control circuitry 76in base 12 may convert the video data to a suitable format for operationof optical modulation device 102. In embodiments, individual lightmodulation elements within optical modulation device 102, which eachcorrespond to an individual pixel on the output image, translatereceived digitized pixel values into corresponding light output valuesfor each pixel.

In embodiments, optical modulation device 102 is a minor based opticalmodulation device, such as a digital micro minor device (or DMD, atrademark of Texas instruments Inc.) commercially available from TexasInstruments, Inc. In this case, optical modulation device 102 comprisesa rectangular array of tiny aluminum micromechanical mirrors, each ofwhich individually deflects about a hinged axis to selectively reflectoutput image light down projection path 31, and reflect non-image lightaway from projection path 31. The deflection state or angle of eachmirror is individually controlled by changing memory contents of anunderlying addressing circuit and mirror reset signal. The array ofminors is arranged such that each minor is responsible for light outputof a single pixel in the video image. Control signals corresponding topixel output are supplied to control electrodes disposed in the vicinityof each mirror, thereby selectively deflecting individual minors byelectromagnetic force according to video data on a pixel by pixel basis.Light reflected by each mirror is then transmitted along projection path31, through prism structure 110, and out of projection chamber 14 usingprojection lens system 112.

A controller 114 is included with optical modulation device 102 andprovides control electrical signals that direct each micromechanicalminor to desired light reflecting states corresponding to pixel videodata for each pixel. Control and power cabling 120 provides electricalcommunication between controller 114 and control circuitry 76 in base 12(FIG. 3). Thus, at least one electrical connector included in cabling120 couples to controller 114 in projection chamber 14 and to controlcircuitry 76 in base 12 and provides electrical communicationtherebetween. A power line within cabling 120 extends between opticalmodulation device 102 in projection chamber 14 and power supply 66 inbase 12 and provides power from power supply 66 to device 102. Controland power cabling 120 then travels through positional interface 16,which includes one or more holes or apertures that allow control andpower cabling 120 to pass therethrough without impingement on controland power cabling 120 for any position of projection chamber 14. Inembodiments, control and power cabling 120 passes through a plastic tubein positional interface 16 to further protect the wires.

The illumination angles for optical modulation device 102 are set by theoutput direction of fiber-optic interface 102, arrangement of relayoptics 106 and 108, and the faces of prism structure 110. After lightreflection by individual minors of optical modulation device 102,reflected light exits prism structure 110 towards lenses 112 alongprojection path 31.

Vents 118 are disposed on an aft portion of projection chamber housingproximate to optical modulation device 102. An air duct 122 includes ahigh-pressure end proximate to optical modulation device 102 andcontroller 114, and a low pressure end disposed within base 12. Asmentioned above, fans 62 a and 62 b may draw air from within base 12 andexhaust the air out exhaust vents 24 b, which creates a negativepressure within base 12 relative to the ambient room or surroundings.Correspondingly, fans 62 a and 62 b create a negative pressure for theend of air duct 122 within base 12 relative to the opposite end inprojection chamber 14, which would otherwise rest at room pressure dueto vents 118. By disposing one end of air duct 122 within base 12 andthe other end in a space 125 around optical modulation device 102, fans62 thus draw air from the space 125 and cool optical modulation device102. Cumulatively, cooling air is drawn from the ambient surroundingsaround projection chamber 14, through vents 118 and into a space 125surrounding optical modulation device 102, into duct 122 at end 122 a,through duct 122, out duct 122 at end 122 b, into base 12, and out airvents 24 b. Fans 62 maintain end 122 b at a low pressure relative to end122 a, and thus providing cooling for optical modulation device 102.

A projection lens system 112 is disposed along projection path 31 foroutputting light transmitted by the optical modulation device alongprojection path 31. Projection lens system 112 manipulates image lighttransmitted by optical modulation device 102 along projection path 31such that a projected image cast on a receiving surface enlarges asdistance from output optical projection lens 37 to the receiving surfaceincreases. Projection lens system 112 comprises lenses 112 a, 112 b, 112c and output optical projection lens 37, each of which are disposedcentrically along and orthogonal to projection path 31. Distancesbetween each lens may vary with a desired splay angle from outputoptical projection lens 37, as may the number of lenses used. Inembodiments, display device 10 is designed for a short throw distance,such as between about six inches and about fifteen feet. Display device10 may also include one or more buttons or tools that allow a user tomanually focus and manually zoom output from projection lens system 112.Projection chamber 14 may also include a lens between optical modulationdevice 102 and prism 110 that converges image light reflected by device102 towards projection path 31. This allows a reduction in output lens112 diameters, and a corresponding reduction in diameter and size forprojection chamber 14.

In some other embodiments, other types of light modulators and lightpath designs may be employed. For example, fiber-optic cabling 72 may bearranged for a multiple light path design to transmit light to threeprimary color dedicated LCD optical modulators, or to three primarycolor dedicated DMD optical modulators. In the case of an LCD opticalmodulation device, selective transmission of light comprises selectivepassage of light through a liquid crystal medium on a pixel by pixelbasis.

In addition, although base 12 of FIG. 3 has been primarily describedwith respect to components dedicated to projection functionality, it isunderstood that base 12 may be inclusive in a larger system, or comprisecomponents not directed solely to display device 10 output. For example,base 12 may be part of a computer housing that includes components forprojection functionality and components for computer functionality in acomputer system, such as a desktop computer or video game console.Computer functionality components may include a processor, a hard drive,one more interface and control boards, a disk or floppy drive, etc. Inthis case, housing 20 is considerably larger to accommodate the combinedfunctionality and components. In addition, some components may beshared, such as a power supply and fans used for movement of air withinthe housing.

FIG. 10 shows a front view illustration of display device 1020 withthree positional interfaces 1016 for multiple light outputs fromprojection outputs 1014 in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment.The positional interfaces 1016 comprise fiber-optic interfaces 1004,relay optics 1006 and 1008, prism structures 1010. Fiber-optic cablings1072 attaches to fiber-optic interfaces 1004 and output light to relayoptics 1006. Together, fiber-optic cablings 1072 and fiber-opticinterfaces 1004 direct light generated by the respective light sourcesto prisms 1010. In embodiments, fiber-optic cablings 72 and interfaces1004 are configured with respect to prism 1010 so as to provide anoptical path of incident light that is about perpendicular to anincident surface of prism 1010.

Fiber-optic interfaces 1004 allow a designer to arrange fiber-opticcablings 1072 and fiber-optic interfaces 1004 such that the fiber-opticinterfaces 104 direct light at a particular desired angle relative toprism 1010. Relay optics 1006 and 1008 convert light receive fromfiber-optic cablings 72 to light suitable for transmission into prismstructures 1010. This may include shaping and resizing light fluxreceived from fiber-optic cablings 72 using one or more lenses. In otherembodiments, display device 1020 comprises a pair of fly-eye lensesarranged in the optical path between the light sources and prisms 1010.

Prism structures 1010 are optical modulation systems that provide lightto optical modulation devices at predetermined angles. The illuminationangles for the optical modulation devices are set by the outputdirections of the fiber-optic interfaces, arrangement of relay optics1006 and 1008, and the faces of prism structures 1010. After lightreflection by individual minors of the optical modulation devices,reflected light exits prism structures 1010 along projection paths 1031a, 1031 b and 1031 c, respectively, from the different positionalinterfaces 1016. In some other embodiments, other types of lightmodulators and light path designs may be employed. In the presentembodiment, fiber-optic cablings 72 are arranged for a multiple lightpath design to transmit light from each of the outputs 1014.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a display device 10 a inaccordance with one of the present embodiments. As shown, display device10 a comprises a base 12, two projection chambers 14, and two positionalinterfaces 16.

FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic chart illustrating optical path from alight source 64 configured in base 12 (FIG. 11) to each projectionchamber 14. Light source 64 includes a plurality of laser sets, such asa red laser set 961, a green laser set 962 and a blue laser set 963,generating a plurality of laser beams with different color to oneanother, such as red laser beam, green laser beam and blue laser beam.As shown, light source 64 also includes a switch 8 which receives thered laser beam, green laser beam and blue laser beam from the red laserset 961, the green laser set 962 and the blue laser set 963respectively.

In embodiments according to FIGS. 11 and 12, display device 10 acomprises two projection chambers 14. Each of the projection chambers 14includes an optical modulation device 102 and a projection lens system112. The optical modulation device 102 is configured to selectivelytransmit light generated by the light source according to a receivingvideo data. The projection lens system 112 is configured to output lighttransmitted by the optical modulation device 102 along a predeterminedprojection path, so as to display projection images on one or moreexternal receiving surfaces.

The switch 8 is capable of diverting the red laser beam, the green laserbeam and the blue laser beam in a predetermined sequential order to eachof the two optical modulation devices 102. For instance, in embodiments,there are three modes corresponding to a first time frame, a second timeframe and a third time frame, respectively.

In the first mode, during the first time frame, red laser beam istransmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102 a; greenlaser beam is transmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102b; and blue laser set 963 is turned off or stays in a low voltage stagewhich no laser light is generated.

In the second mode, during the second time frame, green laser beam istransmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102 a; blue laserbeam is transmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102 b;and red laser set 961 is turned off or stays in a low voltage stagewhich no laser light is generated.

In the third mode, during a third time frame, red laser beam istransmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102 b; blue laserbeam is transmitted from switch 8 to optical modulation device 102 a;and green laser set 962 is turned off or stays in a low voltage stagewhich no laser light is generated.

Lasting time of the first time frame, the second time frame and thethird time frame may be identical to one another in embodiments. Namely,the first mode, the second mode and the third mode take turns evenly tobe applied in the light source 64. In some other embodiments, lastingtime of the first time frame, the second time frame and the third timeframe may differ from one another according to system requirement. Suchadjustment toward lasting time may be used as color control manner ofthe display device 10 a.

FIG. 13 illustrates that display device 10 a may project projectionimages on a receiving surface 521. Display device 10 a according to 10comprises two projection outputs with moveable projection chambers andoutput optics which controllably position project images in a firstprojection area 501 and a second projection area 502 respectively. Inembodiments, projection area 501 and projection area 502 are setadjacent to each other horizontally but not connected.

It is to be understood that that keystone correction may be applied inthe condition of the projection path 31 of a projection chamber 14 beingnot perpendicular to receiving surface 521, so as to display imagescorresponding to orthogonal image coordinates.

The orthogonal image coordinates refer to a stored data format,positional arrangement for pixels, or an assumed output format fordisplay of the video information. In some embodiments, pixel values areassigned or stored according to a positional arrangement of pixels in aplanar image, such as a right angle x-y coordinate system. The x-ycoordinate pixel locations are then used to determine where video datais output on an image. Characterizing video information according toorthogonal image coordinates denotes how they are stored and/or intendedfor display, and not necessarily how they are actually cast ordisplayed. Thus, for several present embodiments, the projection imagemay not always be truly orthogonal if keystone correction has not beenapplied. Namely, when the projection path 31 of a projection chamber 14is not perpendicular to receiving surface 521, keystone distortion ofthe image may appear. Keystone distortion often produces a trapezoidalimage for rectangular video information intended for display accordingto orthogonal image coordinates. In some embodiments, the display deviceincludes keystone correction tool for reducing keystone distortion.

In embodiments, display device 10 a also includes one or more imagedetectors, such as camera module, configured to detect image of externalenvironment, such as receiving surface 521, and to detect projectionimages, such as video images projected in first projection area 501 andsecond projection area 502. In embodiments, two image detectors aredisposed within each of the two projection chamber 14 of display devices10 a respectively, so as to utilize optical function of the projectionlens system 112. In some other embodiments, image detector is disposedoutside projection chamber 14; and each of projection chambers 14comprises an image detector coupled to projection chamber housingexternally. In other embodiments, display device 10 a may comprise oneor more image detector coupled to base 12, optionally with a positionalinterface to shift viewing angle of image device so as to detect imageat various positions.

In other embodiments, image detector(s) may provide information ofprojection image to display device 10 a for automatic keystonecorrection. Display device 10 a may firstly project test images in thefirst projection area 501 and the second projection area 502. The testimages may be quickly flashed in some cases so a user may or may not beaware of their presence. Each of the image detectors is capable ofdetecting the projection test image in real-time and providing thereceiving information to control circuitry 76 so as to fix the keystonedistortion in closed loops. In embodiments, the detected outlines of theprojection images 501 and 502 are compared to predetermined orthogonalimage coordinates so as to perform automatic keystone correctionfunction. In other embodiments, the default test image may include ahorizontal reference line 531 and a vertical reference line 532. Thehorizontal reference line 531 and the vertical reference line 532 mayinclude graduation label therein. The automatic keystone correction maybe performed by detecting distortion of the horizontal reference line531 and the vertical reference line 532 of the projection image.

In embodiments, the display device 10 a may include an imagecoordination tool to automatically coordinate multiple projection areas,such as first projection area 501 and second projection area 502.

As shown in FIG. 13, display device 10 a may be used as video output ofa computer device with a dual-screen GUI (graphic-based user interface).For instance, first projection area 501 is used for displaying host ororiginal desktop; and second projection area 502 is used for displayingextension desktop.

A user may wish to have the first projection area 501 and secondprojection area 502 with the same size and the same altitude. In thisapplication, the horizontal lines 531 detected by the image detector maybe used by the image coordination tool for measuring the size andrelative location of each projection area. By aligning the horizontallines, the image coordination tool is capable of arranging the firstprojection area 501 and second projection area 502 at a same altitude.

In another embodiment, images 501 and 502 are connected horizontally. Inthis case, the image coordination may be used to remove any projectionoverlap between the images 502 and 504 on the receiving surface—afterkeystone correction. The removed portion of display may be taken fromeither projected image 502 or 504. A graphics processor associated withthe images may then provide a continuous digital workspace betweenprojection images 501 and 502, e.g., a mouse or pointer moves smoothlybetween the projection images 501 and 502 at their intersection.

FIG. 14 illustrates that display device 10 may project two projectionimages on a receiving surface 521 in accordance with one of the presentembodiments. Display device 10 according to FIG. 3 comprises threeprojection chambers 14. Two video signal sources are coupled to displaydevice 10 so only two projection chambers 14 are used in this instance.Projection images are displayed in first projection area 501 and secondprojection area 502 respectively after keystone correction. Inembodiments, projection area 501 and projection area 502 are setvertically adjacent to each other but not connected. Alternatively, theprojection areas 501 and 502 may overlap or rest directly adjacent toeach other in a vertical direction. The vertical reference lines 532 ofeach area captured by image detector are used by the image coordinationtool to line up the first projection area 501 and the second projectionarea 502 by aligning the vertical reference lines 532.

FIG. 15 shows that display device 10 may project a projection image on areceiving surface 521 in accordance with one of the present embodiments.Display device 10 according to FIG. 3 comprises three projectionchambers 14. In embodiments, a single video signal source is coupled todisplay device 10; and three projection chambers 14 are used to outputimage jointly in first projection area 501, second projection area 502and a third projection area 503. In another words, each of the firstprojection area 501, the second projection area 502 and the thirdprojection area 503 is for displaying portion, such as one third, of aprojection image. In embodiments, horizontal reference lines 531 withgraduation labels may be employed by keystone correction tool and imagecoordination tool to adjust the projection output matching suchpredetermined settings and/or digital placement of each image relativeto each other. In embodiments when the projection device 10 includes apositioning interface as described above, this digital positioningcontrol of each image provides two mechanisms for positioning aprojection image.

FIG. 16 illustrates that display device 10 may project three projectionimages on a receiving surface 521 in accordance with one of the presentembodiments. Display device 10 according to FIG. 1, 3 or 4 comprisesthree projection outputs.

In embodiments, the display device 10 uses three projection chambers 14to project images within three projection areas. First projection area501 and third projection area 503 are lined up horizontally while secondprojection area 502 is placed below the first projection area 501 andthird projection area 503 as shown. In embodiments, horizontal referencelines 531 and vertical reference lines 532 with graduation labels may beemployed by keystone correction tool so as to form projection areas withthe same size and with reduced keystone distortion. Intersections ofhorizontal reference lines 531 and vertical reference line 532 may beused by image coordination tool to adjust locations of the threeprojection areas to match such setting or default.

In embodiments which user may selectively move and locate firstprojection area 501, the second projection area 502 and third projectionarea 503 on the receiving surface 521 according to his/her preference.User may control the position of each projection areas by using OSD(On-screen display) interface 533 such as an arrow as shown. In otherembodiments, display device 10 incorporates a built-in screen or is ableto connect to an accessory external display 19 as shown. User may drageach of the projection areas to a preferred location through GUI(Graphics-based user interface) displaying on built in screen oraccessory external display 19 by pointer, such as mouse input. In otherembodiments user may drag each of the projection areas by finger touchon the built-in screen or accessory external display 19 which hastouch-screen function.

FIG. 17 shows other embodiments which display device 10 projects threeprojection images on three receiving surfaces, first receiving surface601, second receiving surface 602 and third receiving surface 603 onthree walls respectively. Display device 10 according to FIG. 3comprises three projection chambers 14. Each of the projection chambersprojects image on one receiving surface.

As shown in FIG. 17, projection images on second receiving surface 602and third receiving surface 603 may need keystone correction due toprojection paths 31 from display device 10 being not perpendicular tosecond receiving surface 602 and third receiving surface 603. Projectionimage on first receiving surface 601 may also need keystone correction.Although in FIG. 17 the projection path from display device 10 isperpendicular to first receiving surface 601, it may not beperpendicular in another cross-section or horizontally centered to Wall1 as shown, such as in the condition that display device 10 disposed onfloor; and the image on surface 601 may need situation specific keystonecorrection.

In embodiments, the display device 10 is employed by a video game devicefor generating near-peripheral surrounding video. For example, a usersitting in front of display device 10 benefits from a full peripheralvision video game experience where objects may appear from not only thefront but also the sides and be detected by peripheral vision. Inembodiments, the display device 10 may be installed near to ceiling toprevent casting a shadow of user.

It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are more generalthan connecting multiple images and are applicable to a variety oftechniques for casting the images on a surface efficiently where theassumption of the “fixed TV box” is not available. In other words, moregenerally, the presently described embodiments enable the projectedcontent to be displayed according to a layout to optimize viewability.

In this regard, without knowing where a user is looking at with his orher eyes, for multiple images, embodiments have been described hereinthat ensure vertical lines are vertical and horizontal lines arehorizontal. In yet another embodiment, with a camera configured toreceive video input resulting from the projection of multiple images onthe wall, in effect, the device can “see what it is doing” with respectto the projected content and make intelligent adjustments wheresomething about the projected content is disturbing viewability.

A one image projector usually casts orthogonal to its receiving surface.The three image projection system having multiple outputs as describedin various embodiments herein will generally have vertical andhorizontal keystoning effects, however, since typically orthogonalitywill not necessarily be maintainable or sustainable. Accordingly,various embodiments can employ software that coordinates the projectionof images dynamically based on feedback from the camera about how theimages are displaying.

In some cases, a camera included in the projection system obtains imagefeedback for each of the three images. A controller on the projector ora device in communication with the projector receives the camerafeedback and changes vertical and horizontal keystoning accordingly. Thecamera can also provide a measure of vertical and horizontal distortionfor each image.

For example, a continuous horizontal line on all three images may bealigned, despite the offset image castings in height on the threesurfaces—both in the horizontal and vertical directions. In this regard,video games often require knowledge of horizon lines for presentation ofgame graphics. The presently described embodiment thus facilitates theconsistent presentation of video games despite different image castingconditions (e.g., as might be ubiquitous from a handheld device thatmoves with a user's hands).

Software alignment and coordination of the images is thus achievable.The result is the automatic maintenance of rectangular images on allthree surfaces. Coordination marks may be cast to facilitate imagevertical and horizontal alignment. These are lines or other fiduciarygraphics that permit closed loop feedback with the camera. For example,red lines that should be connected on adjacent images may be flashed.The software may then manipulate the images to suitably align thefiduciary lines.

FIG. 18 shows other embodiments which display device 10 projects threeprojection images on first receiving surface 601, second receivingsurface 602 and third receiving surface 603. First receiving surface 601is on a wall in front of the display device 10. Second receiving surface602 is on ceiling; and third receiving surface 603 is on floor.

In embodiments which the display device 10 employed by video game devicefor generating near-peripheral surrounding video, user may experience.For example, these kinds of embodiments may be applied in helicopter,plane and other flying games to form full visual feedback for a horizonchange, e.g., the video ground rises or falls. Image coordination toolmay be applied to adjust projection images to be projected at properpositions. Other embodiments of the three receiving surfaces may includeprojecting image on two walls and a ceiling, or on two walls and afloor. It is to be understood and appreciated that other multi-surfaceexamples exist which are to be included within the scope of thisdisclosure and claims appended hereto.

FIG. 19 shows an example block diagram illustrating a control circuitry76 of display device 10 in accordance with several embodiments. Asmentioned, input/output circuitry 74 and input ports 78 collectivelypermit communication between display device 10 and a device that outputsa video signal carrying video data. Video signal provided to controlcircuitry 76 may be in an analog or digital form. In some embodiments,input/output circuitry 74 and control circuitry 76 convert analog videosignals into digital video signals suitable for digital operation ofoptical modulation device 102. In some other embodiments, input/outputcircuitry 74 may also include support software and logic for particularconnector types, such as processing logic required for video signalinput from S-video cabling or digital video signal.

Control circuitry 76 receives video signal that has been pre-processedby input/output circuitry 76 and then further processes video signal soas to provide control signals to components of display device 10 foroutputting video projection according to video signal.

In embodiments, control circuitry 76 may include a processor 761, amemory 762, a control input/output interface 763, a video inputinterface 764 and a video output interface 765. Video input interface764 couples to input/output circuitry 74 for receiving pre-processedvideo signal from input/output circuitry 764. Video output interface 765couples to light source 64 and optical modulation devices 102 forproviding control signals, which are based on the video signal andfurther modulation by control circuitry 76.

Control input/output interface 763 may include user interface 731, imagedetector interface 732, network interface 733 for coupling to user inputdevices, image detector and a network connecting to display device 10.User input device may include embedded/built-in control button(s),keypad, display, touch screen or stick controller; or accessory externalmouse, keyboard, display with or without touch-screen function, remotecontroller or other controller. OSD (On-screen display) controlinstructions may be displayed on embedded/built-in display or touchscreen, external display, or on the projection image.

Processor 761 may be a commercially available processor, controller ormicroprocessor such as one of the Intel or Motorola family of chips forprocessing/calculating data based on programs, modules or datastructures in memory 762. In other embodiments, processor 761 and atleast part of memory 762 are manufactured as a single chip; namely, asystem on chip application. Memory 762 may include high speed randomaccess memory and may also include non-volatile memory, such as one ormore magnetic disk storage devices. Memory 762 may optionally includeone or more storage devices.

The memory 762 in control circuitry 76 may store the following programs,modules and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof: anoperation system 710, a video signal processing module 711, a lightsource control module 712, an optical modulation control module 713, akey stone correction tool 714, an image coordination tool 715, a thermalcontrol application 718, an OSD (On-screen display) application 719,etc.

Operating system 710 includes procedures for handling various basicsystem services and for performing hardware dependent tasks.

OSD (On-screen display) application 719 contains control icons orfigures that may be displayed on embedded/built-in display or touchscreen, external display, or on the projection image; it also containsrules and instructions in associated with user's input.

Video signal processing module 711 is used for processing the videosignal from input/output circuitry 764 so as to construct frame basedcontrol signals which may be adopted by optical modulation device 102.

Light source control module 712 is for controlling red laser set 961,green laser set 962, blue laser set 963 and switch 8 within light source64 in order to drive light source 64 to divert the red laser beam, thegreen laser beam and the blue laser beam in a predetermined sequentialorder to each of the three projection chambers 14. Optical modulationcontrol module 713 is for driving optical modulation device 102.

Keystone correction tool 714 may include one or more distortion reducingalgorithm. It may utilize several stored default test images 741 such asthose include horizontal references line 531 and/or vertical referencelines shown in the figures described above, and also utilize detectedinformation 742 such as projection image feedback detected by imagedetector to perform auto keystone correction. In embodiments, keystonecorrection tool 714 includes a distortion look-up table to fast define apredetermined correction parameter according a match-up result ofdetected projection image feedback and default test image.

Image coordination Tool 715 may include one or more algorithm tocoordinate images to be projected by multiple projection chambersaccording to user's preference or default configurations. Inembodiments, default image configurations 751 and/or user preferences752 may be stored in the memory 762. Image coordination tool 715 mayemploy keystone correction tool 714 for coordinating multiple images ina close loop, so as to generate video output not only at targetlocations but also better matching desired shapes and sizes. Inembodiments, an alignment application 753 included in image coordinationtool 715 may be used for aligning multiple images such as shown in FIGS.13, 14, 15 and 16; alignment application 753 may employ horizontalreference line 531 and/or vertical reference line 532 of keystonecorrection tool 714 to perform its function.

Thermal control application 718 may include stored thermal regulation781 and fan driver 782. Temperature information detected by thermaldetector 80 is provided to control circuitry 76 through thermalinterface 738. Thermal control application 718 drives 62 a and/or 62 bbased on thermal regulation 782 and the received thermal information.

FIG. 20 shows an exemplary video output according to embodiments. Inembodiments, for example, display device 10 allocates relatively higherprocessing resource for the central image 2004 and allocates relativelower processing resource for the subsidiary images such as the rightimage 2002 and the left image 2006; namely, the video resolution ofcentral image 2004 is higher than the video resolution of right image2002 and left image 2006. This may be performed by a resolutionadjustment instruction 754 included in the image coordination tool 715and may benefit data processing for operating system 710. In thisexample, the display device can be a portable electronic device, such asa mobile phone or other handheld media or content rendering device, andwith the control of multiple light outputs implemented by the portableelectronic device as described herein for one or more embodiments,significant coverage of the wall can be achieved, though perhaps notfull coverage due to limitations on power of portable electronicdevices, and the like.

Of particular note are the limitations that gaming content on handhelddevices has suffered in the past without the projection of content asdescribed herein. Namely, due to limited screen real estate, the gamingexperience on handheld devices has suffered. In short, a limited amountof eye or pixel resolution makes some tasks in a game tedious if only asmall screen is available. For instance, slight motion may be hardlynoticeable on a small screen or a screen having limited resolution.However, with the multiple projection output switching techniquesdescribed herein, a much larger screen is realized on a wall or othersurface, and the gaming experience is vastly improved from small formfactor devices, e.g., gaming from small form factors is limitless whengreater than equal to 60 inch images can be projected efficiently onto asurface. Additionally, while documents such as Excel spreadsheets aredifficult to view on a small screen, when projected according to one ormore of the embodiments herein, the Excel spreadsheet can be viewed atfull or even greater size.

Besides the central-weighted embodiments as described, the displaydevice 10 may allocate relative higher processing resource for apredetermined angular range of user's visual field. This may be achievedby knowledge of the video data being presented and/or utilizing an eyesensor which is coupled to control circuitry and is configured to detecta direction of line of vision of a user. In the former case, for examplein a video game in which the game knows and controls video output to theuser, the system may make assumptions about where the user is gazing toreduce video information and processing to other parts. In the lattercase, eye detection module 755 included in the image coordination tool715 uses the fovea information retrieved by the eye sensor to set up aweighted video area; and the resolution adjustment instruction 754 maybe applied to areas that outside the weighted video area so as toperform resolution adjustment, such as reducing video resolution in sucharea.

In embodiments, video details are reduced outside about forty degrees inangular separation from user's fovea, i.e., the line of vision. In otherembodiments, video details are reduced in stages. For example, color maybe reduced after twenty degrees in angular separation from user's fovea;and resolution may be diminished after forty or sixty degrees, etc.

FIG. 21 shows another exemplary video output according to embodiments inwhich a multimedia console, personal computing device, set top box, diskplayer, media rendering device, etc., i.e., a system with greaterprojection capabilities than a typical handheld device, is employed toproject an image across an entire wall floor to ceiling. As with FIG.20, relatively higher processing resources can be allocated for thecentral image 2104 and relatively lower processing resources can beallocated for the subsidiary images, such as the right image 2102 andthe left image 2106. In this example, in contrast to a portable handhelddevice which may have some limitations, the display device can be anycomputing device, such as a PC, set top box, multimedia or gamingconsole, or other full size media rendering device, which can displaythe projected images/video across the wall floor to ceiling inaccordance with the techniques herein.

FIG. 22 illustrates an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment employingcontent sensitive determination of foreground and background content ofprojected media, such as video game content, enhances a user experience,and is explained following some presentation of background regarding thehuman visual system. In this regard, with knowledge of which part ofmedia content a viewer is staring or gazing at with his or her eyes, apublisher of the media content, or media rendering device, can applyenhancement algorithms to the media content, such as a video game, basedon distinguishing between foreground imagery and background imagery.Accordingly, in various non-limiting embodiments, user context sensitivetechniques for distinguishing between foreground and background forvideo output for multiple projected images are provided.

By way of some background, human vision employs a number of informationreduction mechanisms to reduce the amount of visual information in anenvironment to a manageable level. Such mechanisms include shapedetection and foreground/background separation. Foreground/backgroundseparation divides an environment to into a foreground where moreinformation is processed (e.g. more detail) and a background where lessinformation is processed (e.g. less detail). Shape detection allows aperson to recognize objects based on reduced information, such as outercontours that resemble a shape for the object.

In one embodiment, the invention leverages the background informationreduction mechanism to reduce the amount of video information displayedby a multiple image projector. The foreground of human vision is definedby the angular separation of rods and cones. Cones are concentrated inthe center, or fovea centralis. Rods are absent there, but denseelsewhere.

Measured density curves for the rods and cones on the retina show anenormous density of cones in the fovea centralis, which are attributedfor color vision capability and the highest visual acuity. Visualexamination of small detail involves focusing light from that detailonto the fovea centralis. On the other hand, the rods are absent fromthe fovea. At a few degrees away from it their density rises to a highvalue and spreads over a large area of the retina. These rods areresponsible for night vision, a highly sensitive type of motiondetection, as well as our peripheral vision.

Notably, the cones are responsible for high resolution vision. The eyemoves continually to keep the light from the object of interest fallingon the fovea centralis where the bulk of the cones reside.

Correspondingly, with knowledge of foreground and background areas inmedia content, the amount of visual information in background portionsof the video display can be reduced. This technique leverages theforeground/background visual processing mechanism in humans to reducevideo storage and processing demands. Since an individual processes lessinformation in a background visual region, reducing video output in aninactive portion may not sacrifice perceived video quality. In onenon-limiting embodiment, video detail is reduced outside about 40degrees in angular separation from the fovea. Other angular separationamounts or ranges can be suitable for use based on one or more variablesaffecting an environment.

In another specific embodiment, video detail is reduced in stages. Forexample, color may be reduced after 20 degrees in angular separationfrom the fovea, resolution may be diminished after 40 or 60 degrees,etc. In one embodiment, a portion of video of interest is used todetermine where the person is looking, e.g., text that they should bereading at a known location. Video away from this foreground section isthen deteriorated in acuity and detail.

There are at least two techniques for separating foreground andbackground. First, a camera can be used to detect where the person islooking to help determine where the person's visual foreground is, i.e.,gaze tracking can be employed. The camera can be calibrated to find auser and the user's eyes at a time of context sensitivity, e.g., whenthe user is entering input into a field or other UI element on screen(for example, entering a user name). In this regard, at the time ofentering the input, it is highly likely the user is staring at thatfield or other UI element. At such time, not only can the UI element betreated like the foreground, thereby reducing background requirements,but also the system is calibrated to find the user's eyes. Informationin the background section may then be decreased in detail, particularlyin color, while maintaining luminance detail and motion so as to notdiminish from relatively larger perception of these in the periphery.

However, with respect to a second technique, gaze tracking may not beavailable or possible for certain environments for projecting videocontent as described herein, e.g., for some embodiments involving ahandheld device. In such instances, the notion of real-timedetermination of background and foreground can be achieved based oncontext sensitive user actions. For instance, as shown in FIG. 22, auser may be playing a video game in which a first person shooter hasgone back in time to hunt dinosaurs. In such a game, when the user aimstarget 2202 on the head of 3-D dinosaur object 2204, it is generallyknown that the user is looking at the head of the dinosaur. In suchcase, entire dinosaur 2204 (or just its head) can be treated as theforeground (the currently important visual data) and the rest of theimagery 2206 can be treated as background and thus de-emphasized. Thus,video games are one application that can benefit from near-peripheralsurrounding video. Other examples can be given where it is known basedon display or game content what users are most likely to be looking atbased on context, e.g., anytime the content demands entering inputassociated with a specific location on-screen.

The de-emphasis of background results in the reduction of size of thevideo data displayed and also reduces the processing load to outputlarge images, saving power as well. Large images cast by multiple imageprojectors, as described herein, is revolutionary in that it providesvastly greater visual information for a person than in the past, i.e.,this represents a paradigm shift from LCD screens. Portable displaymanufacturers, video game companies, graphics companies, etc. can alltake advantage of the techniques for discriminating between foregroundand background content as described herein.

FIG. 23 illustrates another type of projector module that can beemployed in some embodiments. Projector module 98 includes housing 90,red laser set 92, green laser set 94, blue laser set 96, optics 91,control circuitry 97, micro scanner 99, input/output circuitry (notshown), input/output interfaces (not shown), power supply (not shown)and projection lens system 93. Projector module 98 includes three lightsources 92, 94 and 96, but with three separate outputs 95. In thisregard, any of the embodiments described herein in the context ofmultiple chambers can be provided more generally as multiple projectionoutputs without constraining each light source to a chamber.

Housing 90 defines outer dimensions of projector module 98 and alsoprovides mechanical protection for internal components of projectormodule 98. Housing 90 may also include air vents that permit airflowbetween chamber of housing 90 and external environment. Vents may alsobe placed on the housing 90. Power supply provides electrical power tored laser set 92, green laser set 94, blue laser set 96 and othercomponents within projector module 98 that consume electrical power.Thus, power supply may provide electrical energy to control circuitry,input/output circuitry, fans, control circuitry 97 and micro scanner 99.

Several different embodiments of red laser set 92, green laser set 94and blue laser set 96 may be provided. The optics 91 receives red, greenand blue laser light from red laser set 92, green laser set 94 and bluelaser set 96 respectively and provides three separate light outputs tomicro scanner 99. The input/output circuitry provides video signal, frominput/output interfaces, to control circuit 97. The control circuit 97controls red laser set 92, green laser set 94 and blue laser set 96respectively. During a time frame of pixel, red laser set 92, greenlaser set 94 and blue laser set 96 respectively generates predeterminedpower of laser corresponding to a predetermined gray scale of red, greenor blue based on control signals from control circuitry 97.

FIG. 24 illustrates another non-limiting embodiment based on the type ofprojector module set forth in FIG. 24. Similar to FIG. 4, projectionapparatus 2402 includes separate laser (or LED) light sources 2492,2494, 2496, which are input into switch 2408 which performs digitalswitching among light sources 2492, 2494, 2496. The outputs from switch2408 from the controlled timing applied to light sources 2492, 2494,2496 are input to projector modules 2490 respectively generatingprojected outputs a, b and c. Each projection module 2490 includesmodulation optics 2491 a, scanner 99 and projection lens systems 2493for generating the respective outputs a, b and c.

Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail forpurposes of clarity of understanding, those skilled in the art willrecognize that various modifications may be made within the scope of theappended claims. For example, although the positional interfacesdescribed herein have coupled to the projection chamber from the bottom,it is understood that a positional interface may couple to theprojection chamber from the rear. In this case, an air duct, electricalconnection and optical cabling may extend through the projection chamberto its respective functional location. The invention is, therefore, notlimited to the specific features and embodiments described herein andclaimed in any of its forms or modifications within the scope of theappended claims.

What has been described above includes examples of the innovation. Itis, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination ofcomponents or methodologies for purposes of describing the subjectinnovation, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that manyfurther combinations and permutations of the innovation are possible.Accordingly, the innovation is intended to embrace all such alterations,modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope ofthe appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes”is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term isintended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as“comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in aclaim.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system, comprising: an eye detection moduleconfigured to, based on a position of a visual focal point relating to apresented image, determine a first image portion of another image and asecond image portion of the other image, wherein the first image portionhas an associated first resolution and the second image portion has anassociated second resolution different from the first resolution; and animage control component configured to control a first projection chamberto project the first image portion at the first resolution and control asecond projection chamber to project the second image portion at thesecond resolution.
 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising aswitching component configured to, in response to reception of a requestto adjust at least one of the projected first image portion or theprojected second image portion, selectively transmit light to the firstprojection chamber or the second projection chamber according to therequest.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the projected first imageportion and the projected second image portions form a projection of aversion of the other image.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the eyedetection module is further configured to determine the visual focalpoint based upon an object of interest in the presented image.
 5. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the eye detection module is furtherconfigured to determine the visual focal point using an eye sensorconfigured to detect a line of vision of an eye.
 6. The system of claim1, wherein the eye detection module is further configured to determinethe visual focal point based upon context sensitivity information. 7.The system of claim 1, wherein the image control component is furtherconfigured to reduce color content of the second image portion outsideof a predefined angular separation from the visual focal point.
 8. Amethod, comprising: based on a position of a visual focal point relatingto a presented image, determining, by a device including a processor, afirst image portion of another image and a second image portion of theother image, wherein the first image portion has an associated firstresolution and the second image portion has an associated secondresolution different from the first resolution; instructing a firstprojection chamber to project the first image portion at the firstresolution; and instructing a second projection chamber to project thesecond image portion at the second resolution.
 9. The method of claim 8,further comprising: receiving a request to adjust at least one of theprojected first image portion or the projected second image portion; andin response to receiving the request, selectively transmitting light tothe first projection chamber or the second projection chamber accordingto the request.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the projected firstimage portion and the projected second image portions form a projectionof a version of the other image.
 11. The method of claim 8, furthercomprising determining the visual focal point based upon an object ofinterest in the presented image.
 12. The method of claim 8, furthercomprising determining the visual focal point by detecting a line ofvision of an eye.
 13. The method of claim 8, further comprisingdetermining the visual focal point based upon context sensitivityinformation.
 14. The method of claim 8, further comprising reducingcolor content of the second image portion outside of a predefinedangular separation from the visual focal point.
 15. A computer-readablestorage device having instructions stored thereon that, in response toexecution, cause at least one device including a processor to performoperations comprising: based on a position of a visual focal pointrelating to a presented image, determining a first image portion ofanother image and a second image portion of the other image, wherein thefirst image portion has an associated first resolution and the secondimage portion has an associated second resolution different from thefirst resolution; initiating a first projection chamber to project thefirst image portion at the first resolution; and initiating a secondprojection chamber to project the second image portion at the secondresolution.
 16. The computer-readable storage device of claim 15, theoperations further comprising: receiving a request to adjust at leastone of the projected first image portion or the projected second imageportion; and in response to receiving the request, selectivelytransmitting light to the first projection chamber or the secondprojection chamber according to the request.
 17. The computer-readablestorage device of claim 15, wherein the projected first image portionand the projected second image portions form a projection of a versionof the other image.
 18. The computer-readable storage device of claim15, the operations further comprising determining the visual focal pointbased upon an object of interest in the presented image.
 19. Thecomputer-readable storage device of claim 15, the operations furthercomprising determining the visual focal point by detecting a line ofvision of an eye.
 20. The computer-readable storage device of claim 15,the operations further comprising reducing color content of the secondimage portion outside of a predefined angular separation from the visualfocal point.